Entry-level government positions tend to be training positions which lead to quick promotions. For example, ''eligibility worker 1'' is an entry-level position in social services which involves interviewing and fact-gathering in order to determine whether a person is eligible for government support and programs. This is the first level in the eligibility worker series, and after one year of satisfactory performance, an employee can expect to be promoted to the position of eligibility worker II. To obtain entry-level employment in this area, you will need to have completed at least 60 semester hour of college credit.
Federal government entry-level jobs are usually recruited through private agencies. These companies advertise test dates and provide tools and support to help applicants achieve the best possible results in the testing and evaluation process. They can also guide you on how to apply for the most suitable positions for your experience, interests, and qualifications. There is an application fee to take the written test, so it only makes sense to be prepared for it. You can purchase books or computer software to help you get the best possible result, and the recruitment service will be able to advise you on the most effective materials on the market.
It can be a real boon for recent graduates to land an entry-level government affairs position which can prepare them for well-paid and prestigious appointments and which also contribute to society. Local and state government positions generally do not have the testing and oral examination components required for federal government jobs. Graduate positions across the board require the minimum of a bachelor’s level qualification in a particular specialty, but applicants can (and often do) possess a master’s degree or doctorate. To work in a professional entry-level position, you will need to have achieved good college grades and be able to prove an understanding of the concepts underlying your specialty. For example, a first-year accountant in a typical government position will need to have a broad knowledge of the principles and practices related to accounting or auditing functions, depending on which area they are employed in.
Entry-level US government positions are highly sought after. For people who are seeking a possible career path but for whom college is not an option, many of these positions provide great hope for the future. However, you must have completed high school to qualify, in addition to being able to complete whatever training is required for the job. Once you prove yourself in a government position, though, opportunities regularly become available to complete courses and perhaps even attend college at night at the government’s expense. It is not surprising, therefore, that these positions are highly sought after, and to be successful, you have to prepare for them.
If you are interested in working for local, state, or federal government, you can increase your chances of success by preparing ahead of time. Take honest stock of where you are now in terms of qualifications, experience, and the ability to sell yourself at a job interview. Look at what is required to obtain an entry-level government job and consider whether you meet those criteria now. If not, make a plan to do what is required to meet all the selection criteria.
It can be very helpful to obtain internships throughout your college years as these experiences can provide documentary evidence of your ability to function well in a work environment and in particular in your professional area. If you cannot afford to not work for proper wages during vacations, look for work that is relevant to your future employment goals. For example, if you’re studying to be an accountant, look for temporary office work in accounts support roles. Not only will you make valuable contacts, you will build your resume.
Many government jobs also require appropriate state licensure and that the applicant is a US citizen. The process involved in the initial application and then selection for a government job can be so involved that it is important to be very organized and have everything you need ahead of time. If you are part way through the process and discover that you do not have documentary evidence that is required, you may be out of luck.
However, it is well worth the time, effort, and (quite frankly) trouble to apply for entry-level government positions, because they can lead to secure, well-paid, and interesting careers in public service. Even in the most difficult economic times, the government still needs to provide services to the public.
